Farmer Brandon in the finale episode of Farmer Wants a Wife Season 2.
The time has come for the four farmers of “Farmer Wants a Wife” to pick their final lucky lady.
The Season 2 finale aired last night on Fox and is now streaming on Hulu.
Season 2 has averaged 1.8 million viewers per episode.
Though the final decisions have been made, viewers still have one more episode to tune into, as the reunion airs next week on Fox.
Members of our Lancaster Farming team have committed to watching each episode to provide our insights, commentary and opinions. Our many thoughts on the Season 2 finale are below.
Cringiest Moment:
Candice Wierzbowski, digital content manager: If I was stunned by how young and inexperienced Sydney came off during the home visits, it was nothing to how I felt watching her in this episode. Almost everything she did, said and wore screamed emotional immaturity. “Did the farmer find his wife?” “Should we touch fingers?” Congrats on your child bride, Mitch.
Karen Lefever, paginator: Warning, my answer to No. 1 and No. 3 are pretty much going to be the same. Ty, I have been your biggest cheerleader from day one. You have that smile that can get you like the line from Jerry McGuire, “you had me at hello!” And then you really let me down last night. And Megan, a few episodes hit it on the nail when she asked him if he really like her because all of his women were so different. I had been asking myself that same thing. Especially when he brought the new woman home. He asked to reassure her and then smacked a kiss on her. Last night when he said he feels the connection is a friendship, that really was crappy. And she was really shocked. We all were.
Stephanie Speicher, social media editor: There were a lot of moments during Mitchell’s entire segment that made me cringe. Everyone at our Lancaster Farming finale watch party had a moment of cringe when he called Kait “steadfast.” What a strange word to describe a person. But really, what caused all the cringe for me was Sydney’s immaturity shining through. It seemed pretty clear that she hasn’t had any dating experience, which certainly isn’t a bad thing, but it made me uncomfortable watching her act like a newborn calf trying to get its legs under itself. I mean, she asked Mitchell if they should “touch fingers.” What? Also, I hated that Mitchell carried her over the threshold of the barn. You’ve known each other for six weeks. Maybe chill a bit.
Rebecca Schweitzer-Benner, special sections editor: I was upset both for Brandon and with Brandon in his little monologue before the women came to his farm. He was discussing how he and Grace have this wonderful connection, but he was worried about her willingness to move. Then his comment about Emerson is that she’d probably be willing to move and happy living in a small town. You should not (and I’m so glad he didn’t) pick a life partner because of something like that. Choose the one you love (or at least have a connection with). Don’t settle for “being available.”
Kelly Thomas, food and families section editor: There were a lot of one-liners that were filled with cringe. From Sydney saying, “Are we supposed to touch fingers or something?” to Melody walking away from Ty saying, “Bye-bye cowboy.”
Steve Seeber, executive editor: Ty trying to weather the storm he created by slapping the “friendship” tag on his relationship with Megan. Kicking someone when they’re down is not good form.
Most Heartwarming Moment:
Candice: Since I’m sure some of my co-workers will mention Brandon and his father, I’m going to give a shout-out to Nathan pulling Taylor back in for another kiss on their way out. He hasn’t always been the most physically demonstrative person when it comes to showing affection, so that kiss was extra special.
Karen: Well, hands down it was the opening part of the show between Brandon and his dad. Best part of the show for me! It was just such a sweet moment between a father and son. And this would have been the week that I needed the “any tears shed?” question. Yes, there were. It was so touching. His father helping him get ready and giving him good wishes. Saying that he loved him and that any woman he picks he will love her too. Start the tears. So sweet!
Stephanie: Hands down it was Brandon’s conversation with his dad before making his decision. I’ve been a fan of Keith since we first met him, and it was so heartwarming to see him supporting his son and showing emotion. It’s clear that Brandon takes after his dad, which is definitely a good thing.
Rebecca: Brandon’s dad got me the closest to crying that I’ve been all season. Listening to him tell his son that he just wants him to be happy and that he will love whichever woman he chooses was sweet. In-law dynamics can be difficult, and I can imagine it’s even harder with a non-traditional start like this, but his willingness to take in a daughter-in-law is touching.
Kelly: I believe he said this before, but when Nathan told Taylor he can’t wait until the next time he gets to see her. I always get a little choked up. That to me is the true sign a person is falling in love.
Steve: The bond between Brandon and his father. Love is a difficult expression in many father-son relationships. Their openness with it is comforting and encouraging.
Any Shockers?
Candice: I’m sure I’m not the only one who was shocked by Ty’s decision. In the immortal words of Tyra Banks, “We were all rooting for you! How dare you!” It’s one thing to break things off because you disagree on a fundamental issue like whether you want children. He could have easily left it at that. But instead, he chose to gaslight her into thinking their entire romantic relationship had existed solely in her head. What a cad — and trust me, that’s a G-rated version of what I called him last night.
Karen: Again, it was all Ty. I have so much I want to say that I don’t even know what to say. I guess the shock is Ty not picking anyone. I honestly gave him so much credit and then he lets them both down in bogus ways. He tells Melody he has some concerns because they come from two different worlds. Wow, really, he only figured this out now? And Megan, saying he only feels a friendship. Just crappy all around. But the big shock was that he really doesn’t want kids. This has been coming up since he told it to the one woman early on. Maybe this really should have been made clear that he doesn’t and will not change his mind. But I think the ladies both handled it very well. Melody said “goodbye cowboy” and Megan, with all the grace that she has shown this entire season, said, “I want someone who wants me.” You deserve better, ladies, and I know you both will find a good man.
Stephanie: I think the collective shock was Ty’s declaration that his connection with Megan was only a “friendship.” I don’t know about you, Ty, but I don’t make out with my friends after a romantic date. I also don’t talk to my friends about seeing a future life with them. Megan — and the viewers — were clearly blindsided by this, which, to me, means he totally led her on. I am shocked and very, very disappointed.
Rebecca: I am grateful Mitchell went with Sydney. I was concerned his mother’s opinion would sway him, steering him to Kait. While she is great, he keeps describing her as “nurturing” and as “being a great (future) mother,” which are respectable and important attributes, but that’s not enough to build a marriage on.
I know most of my co-workers probably put here that Ty’s decision to send Megan home was shocking, but I don’t know if I was that surprised. He never seemed attached to one woman over another this whole season, and between the constant battle of “kids or not,” plus having a daughter to consider in the emotional roller-coaster that could be one of these relationships, my biggest shock is that he went on this show and stated, at any point in time, that he was willing to have more children.
Kelly: Last week I predicted it was Brandon that would leave without a potential wife, but as soon as Ty put on his best Johnny Cash duds, I knew he was going to leave without a partner. Throughout the season I felt Ty was quick to kiss without taking time to get to know the women. I think he got what he deserved — a whole lot of nothing.
Steve: That Ty may have thought he was going to find his “forever person,” as he puts it, in six weeks. I was also shocked that a team roper even uses the phrase “forever person.” It lacks passion.
Favorite Fashion:
Candice: I thought Grace’s dress was stunning and flattered her figure. But I’m still not done with Ty. I should have known he was up to something nefarious when he walked out in a black hat, because that was just as coded as Sydney’s marry-me-now white lace dress. In Western films, you know who traditionally wears a black hat? The villain.
Karen: Favorite fashion has to be Brandon. All the other men just looked their normal selves, but Brandon put on his good overcoat and looked dressed to impress. I loved his whole look. The outer jacket was awesome and he looked very debonair. Way to go Brandon. But on the other hand, when they showed Ty, I was like, “Oh yea, looking very good Ty!” But then in the end, I guess the bad guy always does dress in black. So his outfit suited him last night.
Stephanie: I have a few fashion things to mention. My overall favorite was Melody’s outfit. I think she looked so cute in her floral dress with her cowboy boots. Allye’s dress was very on trend. I’ve seen those “milkmaid sundresses” all over TikTok. It’s not really my style, but kudos to her for being trendy. And I think it was pretty obvious why Sydney wore a white lacy dress. She was doing everything she could to give off wedding vibes. However, all the pink bows just reminded me how young she really is.
Rebecca: Nathan looked great. I love jeans and a button down, and his jacket was a flattering, and unique, color. As for the women, it’s funny Sydney showed up in white (well, probably actually cream). It’s like she was ready to become a bride. Cute dress, but Kait’s was my favorite of all the women.
Kelly: For the men, I was digging Brandon’s layered look. Allye’s prairie maxi dress with green boots was also a favorite. After watching this show, I am considering adding a few pairs of cowboy boots to my wardrobe.
Steve: Host Jennifer Nettles always looks sharp, and Brandon’s earth tone color scheme of brown suede over green wool was noteworthy, but Ty stylishly nailed the villain in black. His actions certainly fit the wardrobe. If I were more cynical, I might think it was preconceived for ratings.
Favorite Farmer:
Candice: Well, it’s sure not Ty any longer. I’m going with Brandon. I find his emotional vulnerability refreshing and the scene with his father was adorable. I can see where he gets his personality from.
Karen: Three of them ended as my favorite farmer. Guess who didn’t? But I have to say that in these last few weeks, I kept saying Mitchell don’t let me down. Since the beginning I have been choosing Mitchell and Sydney as my favorite couple. And last night when he chose her, I was so excited. Gosh, they both couldn’t stop smiling and were so giddy. The hat kiss and the wink. And then he picked her up and went into the barn. No other girls now, only her. So … time for a roll in the hay? They have really been the couple that has been very close since the very beginning and I was afraid that the producers were just leading us to believe that. I said that if he didn’t pick her that I was not watching the show again. Well, I guess I am going to be watching the show!
Stephanie: I’ve been a Nathan fan pretty much since the Season 2 farmers were announced and he has solidified his place at the top. I think he might even be my overall favorite farmer from both seasons of the show (sorry, Allen). You could hear the nerves in his voice when he was talking to Allye, which shows that he really did care about her and her feelings. His affection for Taylor is what really sent me over the moon. The little kiss on the head, telling her he’s falling in love with her, and then pulling her in for one more kiss. I was seriously swooning. Taylor is a lucky girl.
Rebecca: Nathan. He was sweet to both of his women — not chalking up months together and countless affirmations to a “friendship-level” relationship — and seeing him and Taylor together makes me smile. I am happy for them. Props to everybody on that farm. They have been lovely this whole season and just seem like people I would love to know.
Kelly: It’s always been you, Nathan. Now go out and make some beautiful blond babies with Taylor.
Steve: It’s a tie between Brandon and Nathan. They are genuinely nice guys, and that was evident throughout the season.
Will Any Couple Last?
Candice: As much as I’d like to think all the couples will last, I doubt it. Some of them might still be together for the reunion, but I have serious misgivings about reality TV as a foundation for a lasting relationship.
Karen: I’m not sure. Previews for next week’s reunion show looked like Sydney was sitting further away from Mitchell and had a tear in her eyes. So that didn’t look good. But they are always good at editing to make you think things. I have a feeling Nathan and Taylor might still be together. They looked pretty adorable and were saying that they were falling in love with each other. Brandon and Grace seemed really cute and happy, too. So, who knows. I think once she realized there was nothing to do, she might be out. And of course, Ty. Well, enjoy being single. You aren’t getting any younger.
Stephanie: While I do think all the couples dated for a bit after the filming ended, I don’t know if I see any real, long-term relationships sticking. I just don’t think a six-week show where you’re sharing a man with other women is the best way to develop a lasting relationship. I had a lot of faith in Hunter and Megan last season, and I thought Allen and Khelsi were a really good match, but neither of those relationships worked. Now I don’t want to get my hopes up with these couples. Honestly, I hope I’m proved wrong.
Rebecca: I have low expectations for Sydney and Mitchell. I want to say Brandon and Grace will last, but I don’t think so. She seemed to like the farm, but I don’t know if she loved it to the point where living in the middle of nowhere is going to fit. Taylor and Nathan, I am rooting for you. I’m concerned that you will both end up broken-hearted, but I hope I’m wrong. Ty, I think the lone-wolf life will end up lasting. He seems to like to date, having no problem sharing affirmation with the ladies, but he doesn’t seem ready for another wife.
Kelly: I feel Nathan and Taylor have the best chance. I was a bit surprised Brandon picked Grace, since I don’t think they ever kissed this season (at least not on camera). But since he was crying, I’m hoping for the best. (Editor’s note: Brandon and Grace did kiss in Episode 4 on their solo date).
Steve: When Sydney said, “This is real life for me,” I felt a little sorry for her. Eventually the cameras go away, and real life happens when you share a bathroom with someone every day. I don’t think her relationship with Mitchell will last. The only guarantee in this cast is that Ty will be alone.
Reunion Prediction:
Candice: I don’t doubt Megan’s ability to stand up for herself, but I would love to see Melody come sailing in to her defense and the two of them verbally slap Ty for the way he strung them along on the kids issue. Ideally, they would then share that the two of them have bonded over their experience and are now close friends. Ty, who? Additionally, I think Reba will have her day and get a chance to say “I told you so” about Joy.
Karen: I think Reba is going to have her final word. I just can’t wait to hear what it is. Because she was right all along. She just didn’t handle it in the best way. And I think Megan is going to really let Ty have it.
Stephanie: I don’t care who does it, but someone better read Ty for filth. He deserves to be called out for making Megan feel like she isn’t enough.
Rebecca: Maybe not a prediction, but I’d like to hear the other women’s input on Ty’s choice of the word “friendship.” I don’t know Megan personally and that stung me, so I figure they will take offense on her behalf. I hope she moves past this quickly. She seems like an amazing woman. Besides that, they keep showing Reba in the previews but haven’t shown Joy. Are they hiding whatever catwalk-ready outfit she selected for the day, or does she not come back?
Kelly: I’m ready for Ty to get blasted by all his women for leading them on. He better trade in his black clothes for a suit of armor.
Steve: Ty vindicates himself. Everyone makes mistakes, and this guy needs a friend in the TV audience. I’m still in your corner, Ty.
Final Thoughts:
Candice: I have a couple final thoughts. Mitchell, there are many ways to compliment a woman. Calling her “steadfast” is not one of them. She’s not a ship. Emerson bouncing out with a simple, “Bye,” after being rejected by Brandon made me laugh. Sure it was a little curt, but you’ve got to give it to someone who knows it’s sometimes better to say less, especially when you have nothing nice to say. Ty, you should be taking notes.
Karen: With reality TV shows, I always come back for more. I am just mad that during the whole Ty breakup they were playing my very favorite song, “Iris,” by the Goo Goo Dolls.
Stephanie: I would just like to point out that I predicted all the final choices correctly. I’m very proud of myself for this.
Rebecca: I’ve been hard on Mitchell this whole time. I have to say that his talk with both of the girls sounded like such a monologue, but it was in the best way possible. He put the words together so well that it sounded like something crafted and memorized for the moment.
Kelly: I want to meet the person they hired to decorate the outdoors for the final decisions. Isn’t nature beautiful enough without having to embellish it with gaudy flowers?
Steve: If I’ve learned anything from this show, it’s that “steadfast” is a better description of a ship’s hull than a beautiful woman. Go back to the thesaurus, Mitch.
